By Sam WallerRev. Bob Heidecker has assumed the duties as pastor of Albany Methodist Church, taking over for Tim Trimble.Heidecker, who has spent 43 years in the ministry, comes to Albany from Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church in Amarillo. His first sermon in Albany was Sunday, July 3.

By Sam WallerThe Feed Store is gearing up for another school year with several programs returning to the schedule.“We’re still finalizing some plans,” Feed Store director Tisha Wilkins said. “We are working on kicking off our Tuesday lunches again that first Tuesday of the school year (Aug. 23).

By Sam WallerTwo prayer initiatives have begun in advance of the new school year.Albany PTO president Malarie Sutton started 33 Days of Prayer for Albany in mid-July with each day dedicated to praying for a different group – students, faculty and staff – within the school district.

By Donnie A. LucasMeet the Teacher will be held at both Nancy Smith Elementary School and the junior/senior high campus on Monday, Aug. 15.Students entering K-3 will be able to find out their teacher for the coming school year from 5:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lions football program enters every season with high expectations. This year, the Lions have a target on their backs.Albany is the preseason No. 1 team in Class 2A Division II as selected by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine after reaching the state semifinals in 2021.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lady Lions volleyball team has some holes to fill after advancing to the Region II-2A tournament last year, but there are also some key pieces in place to build around for 2022.After four days of practice, the Lady Lions will scrimmage on Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6.

By Sam WallerTwo Albany athletes earned all-state baseball honors just in time for one to start the next sports season and a new school year.

By Sam WallerAlbany High School fall-sports athletes and cheerleaders will be introduced to the public Monday, Aug. 8 at the Albany Athletic Booster Club’s Ice Cream Supper at Bank Park.Booster Club member Amanda Tabor said organizers are expecting around 400 people to attend.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Golf Club will hold its annual Labor Day tournament Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 3-4, at Albany Golf Course.Entries for the two person scramble are limited to 44 teams – 22 in the morning flight and 22 in the afternoon flight.

By Melinda L. LucasPictures for varsity and JV football players have been set for this week, with volleyball teams and cheerleaders scheduled next week.Members of the Albany varsity and junior varsity football teams will be in full pads on Friday, Aug.